Langkawi

We asked Aidi Abdullah, Chef Concierge at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Malaysia, to gather the savviest sightseeing suggestions he could find—not just his own but also those of the local connoisseurs he works with every day at the Resort. Langkawi has all the attributes of a tropical-island idyll: fine beaches, labyrinthine mangroves and a hilly interior clad in ancient rain forest.

Mountain High

For a spectacular view of the island, take the Langkawi Cable Car 708 metres (2,323 feet) up Mount Machincang. A hike follows the ride to the peak. On a clear day, you should be able to see as far as southern Thailand. The views at sunset are arguably more memorable still.

Jungle Golf

Both scenic and challenging, the Golf Club Datai Bay is 40 minutes from the Resort and offers 18 challenging holes, with a 19th hole—a par-3 signature hole across the bay—that can be played as an alternative to the 17th. The course, set between the mountains and the sea and surrounded by a tropical rain forest abundant with wildlife, is considered the most scenic golf course in Malaysia. But golf is the real star: A 9-hole putting course with bunkers and hazards tests any golfer’s putting skills. Covering varied terrain, the course combines tricky uphill and downhill lies, undulating fairways and fast greens in a jungle setting for the ultimate golf experience.

Rocky Roads

The Geopark trails take you past dramatic coastlines, hidden coves and majestic peaks, where sedimentary structures, fossils and landforms preserve records of the past. Marvel at Langkawi’s unique geological history etched in the landscapes of sea cliffs and caves dating back 550 million years. The tour begins at the Resort’s beach where you board a vessel and journey toward Kilim Geoforest Park, which showcases the unique formation of limestone pinnacles. The trail continues through several points of interest such as Pulau Anak Tikus, Pulau Langgun, Pulau Dendang, Teluk Cina Mati and finally the Gua Cerita.